US4794707A - Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element - Google Patents

Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US4794707A
US4794707A US07/068,903 US6890387A US4794707A US 4794707 A US4794707 A US 4794707A US 6890387 A US6890387 A US 6890387A US 4794707 A US4794707 A US 4794707A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
midsole
disposed
recess
layer
midsole layer
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Fee Related
Application number
US07/068,903
Inventor
Craig A. Franklin
Rui M. Parracho
Lloyd S. Smith
Richard P. Bunch
II Jack A. Boys
Alexander L. Gross
Robert W. Pagluiso
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Converse Inc
Original Assignee
Converse Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from US06/879,897 external-priority patent/US4783910A/en
Application filed by Converse Inc filed Critical Converse Inc
Priority to US07/068,903 priority Critical patent/US4794707A/en
Assigned to CONVERSE INC. reassignment CONVERSE INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: PAGLUISO, ROBERT W., PARRACHO, RUI M., BOYS, JACK A. II, BUNCH, RICHARD P., FRANKLIN, CRAIG A.
Assigned to CONVERSE INC. reassignment CONVERSE INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: GROSS, ALEXANDER L.
Assigned to CONVERSE INC. reassignment CONVERSE INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST. Assignors: SMITH, LLOYD S.
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US4794707A publication Critical patent/US4794707A/en
Assigned to READY, JOSEPH F. reassignment READY, JOSEPH F. SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: INTERCO INCORPORATED, A CORP. OF DE, AND SUCH SUBSIDIARIES LISTED AS: BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC.; CONVERSE INC.; AND LANE COMPANY, INCORPORATED, THE
Assigned to BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION A CORP. OF DELAWARE reassignment BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION A CORP. OF DELAWARE SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CONVERSE INC. A CORP. OF DELAWARE
Assigned to CONVERSE INC. reassignment CONVERSE INC. RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT. Assignors: BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION
Assigned to BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION reassignment BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CONVERSE INC.
Assigned to INTERCO INCORPORATED, LANE COMPANY, INCORPORATED, THE A CORP. OF VA., CONVERSE INC. A CORP. OF DE., BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. A CORP. OF NC reassignment INTERCO INCORPORATED RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT. Assignors: FIRST FIDELITY BANK, READY, JOSEPH F.
Assigned to CONGRESS FINANCIAL CORPORATION reassignment CONGRESS FINANCIAL CORPORATION SECURITY INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FOOTWEAR ACQUISITION, INC.
Assigned to FOOTWEAR ACQUISITION, INC. reassignment FOOTWEAR ACQUISITION, INC. ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: CONVERSE, INC.
Assigned to CONVERSE INC. reassignment CONVERSE INC. CHANGE OF NAME (SEE DOCUMENT FOR DETAILS). Assignors: FOOTWEAR ACQUISITIONS, INC.
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Fee Related legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B17/00—Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined
    • A43B17/16—Insoles for insertion, e.g. footbeds or inlays, for attachment to the shoe after the upper has been joined with heel or toe caps
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/142—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the medial arch, i.e. under the navicular or cuneiform bones
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/144—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the heel, i.e. the calcaneus bone
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/1445—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the midfoot, i.e. the second, third or fourth metatarsal
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1415—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot
    • A43B7/145—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the location under the foot situated under the toes, i.e. the phalanges
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A43—FOOTWEAR
    • A43B—CHARACTERISTIC FEATURES OF FOOTWEAR; PARTS OF FOOTWEAR
    • A43B7/00—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements
    • A43B7/14—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts
    • A43B7/1405—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form
    • A43B7/1475—Footwear with health or hygienic arrangements with foot-supporting parts with pads or holes on one or more locations, or having an anatomical or curved form characterised by the type of support
    • A43B7/148—Recesses or holes filled with supports or pads

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to shoes in general and in particular to casual and athletic footwear providing support, cushioning, and walking comfort due to the presence of an internal dynamic rocker element in conjunction with a support system.
  • the present invention is directed to providing a firm, but resilient dynamic rocker element in the forefoot section of the midsole, which helps propel the foot forward during the latter portion of the gait.
  • this feature is present in a shoe that also has a specially designed anti-G-force capsule, and an anti-torsion member that interact with the dynamic rocker element and each other to prevent pronation, provide cushioning from the shocks associated with day-to-day walking on various surfaces, and allow for efficient utilization of the energy imparted during the walking process.
  • FIG. 1 shows a top view of a midsole containing a dynamic rocker element in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 2 shows a cross-section of the midsole of a preferred embodiment of the invention including a recess for receiving a dynamic rocker element.
  • FIG. 3A shows a top view of the dynamic rocker element for use with the embodiment of FIG. 2.
  • FIG. 3B is a cross-section of the rocker element of FIG. 3 taken along a line extending from the toe area to the heel area.
  • FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of the invention utilizing the components illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3A, and 3B.
  • FIG. 1 shows a top view of a midsole containing a rocker element 101 embedded therein in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.
  • the rocker element 101 is an integral structure that extends across the width of the shoe in the area beneath and surrounding the ball of the foot.
  • FIG. 2 shows an embodiment wherein the midsole 201 has a smooth concave recess 202 which receives a rocker element.
  • FIG. 3 shows the shape of a rocker element for a left shoe.
  • FIG. 3A is a top view.
  • the rocker element has a pair of opposing edges 301 and 302 that are roughly parallel to each other, whereas the pair of opposing edges 303 and 304 follow the general outline of the sole.
  • FIG. 3B shows a cross-section of the rocker element taken through plane B--B of FIG. 3A, which is a reference plane extending from the toe section of the shoe to the heel section.
  • the rocker element has a convex arcuate lower surface 305 joined to a roughly planar surface 306 the internal rocker element is disposed so as to form a geometrical solid. It is the rounded shape of the rocker's lower surface 305, along with its rigidity, which enables it to assist in thrusting the forefoot downward and the heel upward during the latter portion of the step, which enhances motion of the foot.
  • the rocker element may be made from a number of materials, subject to the condition that it is less flexible that the midsole surrounding it. In a preferred embodiment it is made from ethylene vinylacetate, with a density of approximately 70 on a C durometer scale. Other materials which also may be used include polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and thermoplastic rubber (TPR).
  • FIG. 4 shows an embodiment wherein the midsole is formed of two layers.
  • a force moderator layer, 412 composed of a rubber modified ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blown microcellular material, forms the lower midsole layer 402 and has an aperture 414 in the heel portion, and a recess 410 disposed across its width in the forefoot area.
  • the upper midsole layer 401 is also composed of a rubber modified EVA blown microcellular material 412 with an aperture 415 in the heel portion.
  • Within the forefoot section of the upper midsole layer 401 is a layer of highly energy efficient and compliant type of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blown material 408, nested within a stable perimeter 416 of higher density ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blown material.
  • EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
  • a highly resilient semi-rigid anti-torsion member 409 which is made of thermoplastic material, is disposed within the upper midsole layer with a central axis lying in a complementary shaped recess along the central axes of the midsole, the rear portion of the anti-torsion member lying proximate to the aperture 415 in the heel portion of the midsole.
  • the anti-torsion member includes two integrally formed arms 418 and 419 transversely disposed with respect to the central axis of the shank and extending towards the side of the midsole. The purpose of the member is to assure that when the knee and the forefoot flexes, the rear portion of the shoe does not.
  • An anti-G-force heel capsule 404 made of a special polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, rubber (PE/EVA/rubber) blend of blown microcellular material with a durometer of approximately 50 ⁇ 3 on the Asker C scale extends through the apertures 414 and 415 in the upper and lower midsole layers and into the aperture in the heel portion of the outsole.
  • the rubber may, for example be styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), polyisobutadiene, or polyisoprene.
  • SBR styrene butadiene rubber
  • the purpose of the force moderation layers in combination with the anti-G-force capsule 404 is to provide well distributed shock absorption to the calcaneal portion of the foot.
  • the rocker element 411 Cradled in recess 410 of the midfoot section of the lower midsole 402 is the internal dynamic rocker element 411.
  • the rocker element co-operates with anti-torsion member 409 to provide a surface which translates the motion imported to the area under the ball of the foot into a rocking motion, resulting in a more comfortable and easier stride.
  • the rocker element may be placed in a conventional midsole in a manner similar to that illustrated herein, the requirement being that the rocker element should be less flexible than adjacent portions of the midsole.
  • the outsole 405 of the present embodiment is composed of solid rubber and the heel portion has an aperture 416 therein having side walls.
  • the aperture 416 in the outsole is smaller in area than the collective aperture 414 and 415 in the heel portion of the midsole so that the heel capsule extends most of the way through the collective aperture, leaving a gap between the capsule and a walking surface.
  • the outsole 405 has sidewall 406 extending upward from the base of the outsole 405 and around the heel portion of the midsole and sidewall 407 also extending upward around the toe region of the outsole.
  • a rear foot stabilizer 413 made of polyurethane or a solid PVC elastomer is provided above the midsole along the back portion of rearfoot section which stabilizes the heel of the foot during motion.
  • a perimeter support wedge 403 composed of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and having a durometer of approximately 70 on the Asker C scale is provided between the midsole and the outsole in the heel portion of the shoe and extending forward therefrom.
  • EVA ethylene vinyl acetate
  • the support wedge 403 is tapered along the bottom edge toward the front of the sole of the shoe and terminates to the rear of the transverse arms 418 and 419 of the anti-torsion member 409 lying above it.
  • the support wedge 403 also has an aperture 417 in the heel portion thereof coincident with the apertures 414 and 415 in the midsole layers, through which the heel capsule extends.
  • the perimeter support wedge 40 provides cushioned support for the heel and medial arch and in conjunction with the dynamic rocker element 411, the anti-torsion member 409 and the heel capsule 404, distributes shock absorption along the entire foot while providing support to promote a natural gait.

Abstract

A shoe for casual or athletic footwear which provides support cushioning and walking comfort due to the presence of an internal dynamic rocker element disposed in a forefoot area of the midsole.

Description

This application is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 879,897, filed June 30, 1986.
DESCRIPTION
The present invention relates to shoes in general and in particular to casual and athletic footwear providing support, cushioning, and walking comfort due to the presence of an internal dynamic rocker element in conjunction with a support system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
It has long been an object of shoe designers to provide wearers with an optimum combination of comfort and support. Problems addressed by the prior art include: cushioning impacts against the pavement or other walking surface, preventing pronation, and providing support to promote a natural gait. The various elements employed by shoe designers to promote these and other ends include heel plugs, shanks, and contoured soles. Heel plugs and other similar devices used to cushion walking are known in the art. See, for example, Haag, U.S. Pat. No. 1,724,349, and McMahon, U.S. Pat. No. 4,342,158. Shanks of various shapes are known. See, for example, Browne, U.S. Pat. No. 819,845. However, it is not known in the prior art to embed a dynamic rocker element in the midsole, nor is it known in the prior art to combine these with heel plugs and shanks or similar elements to take advantage of any structural interaction they may have.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
The present invention is directed to providing a firm, but resilient dynamic rocker element in the forefoot section of the midsole, which helps propel the foot forward during the latter portion of the gait. In a preferred embodiment, this feature is present in a shoe that also has a specially designed anti-G-force capsule, and an anti-torsion member that interact with the dynamic rocker element and each other to prevent pronation, provide cushioning from the shocks associated with day-to-day walking on various surfaces, and allow for efficient utilization of the energy imparted during the walking process.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 shows a top view of a midsole containing a dynamic rocker element in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 shows a cross-section of the midsole of a preferred embodiment of the invention including a recess for receiving a dynamic rocker element.
FIG. 3A shows a top view of the dynamic rocker element for use with the embodiment of FIG. 2.
FIG. 3B is a cross-section of the rocker element of FIG. 3 taken along a line extending from the toe area to the heel area.
FIG. 4 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of the invention utilizing the components illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3A, and 3B.
DESCRIPTION OF SPECIFIC EMBODIMENTS
FIG. 1 shows a top view of a midsole containing a rocker element 101 embedded therein in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. The rocker element 101 is an integral structure that extends across the width of the shoe in the area beneath and surrounding the ball of the foot.
FIG. 2 shows an embodiment wherein the midsole 201 has a smooth concave recess 202 which receives a rocker element. FIG. 3 shows the shape of a rocker element for a left shoe. FIG. 3A is a top view. The rocker element has a pair of opposing edges 301 and 302 that are roughly parallel to each other, whereas the pair of opposing edges 303 and 304 follow the general outline of the sole. FIG. 3B shows a cross-section of the rocker element taken through plane B--B of FIG. 3A, which is a reference plane extending from the toe section of the shoe to the heel section. In cross-section the rocker element has a convex arcuate lower surface 305 joined to a roughly planar surface 306 the internal rocker element is disposed so as to form a geometrical solid. It is the rounded shape of the rocker's lower surface 305, along with its rigidity, which enables it to assist in thrusting the forefoot downward and the heel upward during the latter portion of the step, which enhances motion of the foot. The rocker element may be made from a number of materials, subject to the condition that it is less flexible that the midsole surrounding it. In a preferred embodiment it is made from ethylene vinylacetate, with a density of approximately 70 on a C durometer scale. Other materials which also may be used include polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) and thermoplastic rubber (TPR).
FIG. 4 shows an embodiment wherein the midsole is formed of two layers. A force moderator layer, 412, composed of a rubber modified ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blown microcellular material, forms the lower midsole layer 402 and has an aperture 414 in the heel portion, and a recess 410 disposed across its width in the forefoot area. The upper midsole layer 401 is also composed of a rubber modified EVA blown microcellular material 412 with an aperture 415 in the heel portion. Within the forefoot section of the upper midsole layer 401 is a layer of highly energy efficient and compliant type of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blown material 408, nested within a stable perimeter 416 of higher density ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) blown material.
A highly resilient semi-rigid anti-torsion member 409, which is made of thermoplastic material, is disposed within the upper midsole layer with a central axis lying in a complementary shaped recess along the central axes of the midsole, the rear portion of the anti-torsion member lying proximate to the aperture 415 in the heel portion of the midsole. The anti-torsion member includes two integrally formed arms 418 and 419 transversely disposed with respect to the central axis of the shank and extending towards the side of the midsole. The purpose of the member is to assure that when the knee and the forefoot flexes, the rear portion of the shoe does not.
An anti-G-force heel capsule 404 made of a special polyethylene, ethylene vinyl acetate, rubber (PE/EVA/rubber) blend of blown microcellular material with a durometer of approximately 50±3 on the Asker C scale extends through the apertures 414 and 415 in the upper and lower midsole layers and into the aperture in the heel portion of the outsole. The rubber may, for example be styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), polyisobutadiene, or polyisoprene. The purpose of the force moderation layers in combination with the anti-G-force capsule 404 is to provide well distributed shock absorption to the calcaneal portion of the foot.
Cradled in recess 410 of the midfoot section of the lower midsole 402 is the internal dynamic rocker element 411. The rocker element co-operates with anti-torsion member 409 to provide a surface which translates the motion imported to the area under the ball of the foot into a rocking motion, resulting in a more comfortable and easier stride. The rocker element may be placed in a conventional midsole in a manner similar to that illustrated herein, the requirement being that the rocker element should be less flexible than adjacent portions of the midsole.
The outsole 405 of the present embodiment is composed of solid rubber and the heel portion has an aperture 416 therein having side walls. In this embodiment, the aperture 416 in the outsole is smaller in area than the collective aperture 414 and 415 in the heel portion of the midsole so that the heel capsule extends most of the way through the collective aperture, leaving a gap between the capsule and a walking surface. In a preferred embodiment, the outsole 405 has sidewall 406 extending upward from the base of the outsole 405 and around the heel portion of the midsole and sidewall 407 also extending upward around the toe region of the outsole.
In a preferred embodiment, a rear foot stabilizer 413 made of polyurethane or a solid PVC elastomer is provided above the midsole along the back portion of rearfoot section which stabilizes the heel of the foot during motion.
Finally, in a preferred embodiment, a perimeter support wedge 403 composed of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and having a durometer of approximately 70 on the Asker C scale is provided between the midsole and the outsole in the heel portion of the shoe and extending forward therefrom. The support wedge 403 is tapered along the bottom edge toward the front of the sole of the shoe and terminates to the rear of the transverse arms 418 and 419 of the anti-torsion member 409 lying above it. The support wedge 403 also has an aperture 417 in the heel portion thereof coincident with the apertures 414 and 415 in the midsole layers, through which the heel capsule extends. The perimeter support wedge 40 provides cushioned support for the heel and medial arch and in conjunction with the dynamic rocker element 411, the anti-torsion member 409 and the heel capsule 404, distributes shock absorption along the entire foot while providing support to promote a natural gait.

Claims (12)

What is claimed is:
1. A shoe comprising:
(i) a substantially planar outsole including a sole portion and a heel portion;
(ii) a flexible midsole attached to the top of the outsole, and having a forefoot area; and
(iii) an internal rocker element disposed in the forefoot area of the midsole, the internal rocker element having a substantially planar upper surface and a convexly curved lower surface disposed so as to form a geometrical solid and fabricated out of a material which renders the internal rocker element less flexible and substantially more rigid than adjacent portions of the midsole, so as to assist in thrusting the forefoot downward and the heel upward in the course of the wearer's gait, when the region of the shoe portion proximate to such element is in contact with the ground.
2. A shoe according to claim 1, wherein the forefoot area of the midsole has a recess disposed across its width and the internal rocker element is disposed in the recess.
3. A shoe comprising:
(i) an outsole including a sole portion and a heel portion, the heel portion including an aperture therein having side walls;
(ii) a flexible midsole having a central axis and two sides attached to the top of the outsole, the midsole including a heel portion with an aperture therein having sidewalls and the midsole further including a forefoot area with a first recess disposed across the width of the forefoot area;
(iii) an internal rocker element disposed in the first recess of the forefoot area, the internal rocker element having a planar upper surface and a convexly curved arcuate lower surface, and fabricated out of a material which renders the internal rocker element less flexible than the midsole;
(iv) an anti-torsion member with a central axis lying in a complementarily shaped second recess along the central axis of the midsole, the rear portion of the anti-torsion member lying proximate to the upper portion of the heel capsule, such member further including two integrally formed arms transversely disposed with respect to the central axis of the shank, and extending towards the sides of the midsole;
(v) a heel capsule having side walls and extending through the apertures in the heel portion of the midsole and the outsole, wherein the side walls are generally conformable to those of the apertures; and
(vi) such midsole including an energy efficient forefoot section, nested within a higher density perimeter, adjoining the anti-torsion member.
4. A shoe according to claim 3, wherein the heel capsule extends most of the way through the aperture in the heel portion of the shoe, leaving a gap between the capsule and a walking surface.
5. A shoe according to claim 3, wherein the anti-torsion member is resilient.
6. A shoe according to claim 3, further including a perimeter support wedge in the heel portion thereof between the outsole and midsole and made of material less flexible than the midsole, wherein the perimeter support wedge has an aperture in the heel portion thereof.
7. A shoe according to claim 3, further including a rear foot stabilizer above the midsole and curving around the perimeter of the heel capsule, wherein the rear foot stabilizer has sidewalls extending around the heel of the foot of the wearer.
8. A shoe according to claim 3, wherein the midsole is composed of two layers, an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer and wherein,
(i) the anti-torsion member is disposed in the upper midsole layer
(ii) the first recess is disposed in the lower midsole layer and
(iii) the internal rocker element is disposed in the first recess between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.
9. A shoe according to claim 4, wherein the midsole is composed of two layers, and upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer and wherein,
(i) the anti-torsion member is disposed in the upper midsole layer
(ii) the first recess is disposed in the lower midsole layer and
(iii) the internal rocket element is disposed in the first recess between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.
10. A shoe according to claim 5, wherein the midsole is composed of two layers, an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer and wherein,
(i) the anti-torsion member is disposed in the upper midsole
(ii) the first recess is disposed in the lower midsole layer and
(iii) the internal rocker element is disposed in the first recess between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.
11. A shoe according to claim 6, wherein the midsole is composed of two layers, an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer and wherein,
(i) the anti-torsion member is disposed in the upper midsole layer
(ii) the first recess is disposed in the lower midsole layer and
(iii) the internal rocker element is disposed in the first recess between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.
12. A shoe according to claim 7, wherein the midsole is composed of two layers, an upper midsole layer and a lower midsole layer and wherein,
(i) the anti-torsion member is disposed in the upper midsole layer
(ii) the first recess is disposed in the lower midsole layer and
(iii) the internal rocker element is disposed in the first recess between the upper midsole layer and the lower midsole layer.
US07/068,903 1986-06-30 1987-06-30 Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element Expired - Fee Related US4794707A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US07/068,903 US4794707A (en) 1986-06-30 1987-06-30 Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US06/879,897 US4783910A (en) 1986-06-30 1986-06-30 Casual shoe
US07/068,903 US4794707A (en) 1986-06-30 1987-06-30 Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element

Related Parent Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US06/879,897 Continuation-In-Part US4783910A (en) 1986-06-30 1986-06-30 Casual shoe

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US4794707A true US4794707A (en) 1989-01-03

Family

ID=26749500

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US07/068,903 Expired - Fee Related US4794707A (en) 1986-06-30 1987-06-30 Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US4794707A (en)

Cited By (110)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4918841A (en) * 1989-01-30 1990-04-24 Turner Jerome P Athletic shoe with improved midsole
US4928404A (en) * 1988-01-08 1990-05-29 Bauerfeind Gmbh & Co. Heel cushion
WO1990006699A1 (en) * 1988-12-14 1990-06-28 Avia Group International, Inc. Insert member for use in an athletic shoe
US4947560A (en) * 1989-02-09 1990-08-14 Kaepa, Inc. Split vamp shoe with lateral stabilizer system
WO1990012517A1 (en) * 1989-04-17 1990-11-01 Foot-Joy, Inc. Shoe sole embossed composition and method
US5005300A (en) * 1987-07-06 1991-04-09 Reebok International Ltd. Tubular cushioning system for shoes
US5077915A (en) * 1989-04-28 1992-01-07 Converse, Inc. Stress fracture reduction midsole
US5092060A (en) * 1989-05-24 1992-03-03 Enrico Frachey Sports shoe incorporating an elastic insert in the heel
US5187883A (en) * 1990-08-10 1993-02-23 Richard Penney Internal footwear construction with a replaceable heel cushion element
US5255451A (en) * 1988-12-14 1993-10-26 Avia Group International, Inc. Insert member for use in an athletic shoe
US5343639A (en) * 1991-08-02 1994-09-06 Nike, Inc. Shoe with an improved midsole
US5384977A (en) * 1993-06-25 1995-01-31 Global Sports Technologies Inc. Sports footwear
US5416989A (en) * 1993-03-29 1995-05-23 Brown Group, Inc. Shoe with a shank having a cushion therein
US5433022A (en) * 1993-04-16 1995-07-18 Lo; Chie-Fang Three color side wall rubber sole in simply changeable mode
AU663414B2 (en) * 1992-10-07 1995-10-05 Friedhelm Vogler Shoe
US5467536A (en) * 1991-05-24 1995-11-21 Ramer; John Shoe construction
US5491909A (en) * 1993-08-18 1996-02-20 Darco Shock absorbing medical shoe
US5542196A (en) * 1994-04-15 1996-08-06 Donna Karan Shoe Company Insole
US5768801A (en) * 1996-02-08 1998-06-23 Meldisco H.C., Inc. Welt shoe comfort system
US5832634A (en) * 1995-12-04 1998-11-10 Fila Sport S.P.A. Sports footwear with a sole unit comprising at least one composite material layer partly involving the sole unit itself
US5875569A (en) * 1995-11-13 1999-03-02 Dupree; Tony L. Athletic shoe with anti-inversion protection
US5881478A (en) * 1998-01-12 1999-03-16 Converse Inc. Midsole construction having a rockable member
US5918383A (en) * 1995-10-16 1999-07-06 Fila U.S.A., Inc. Sports shoe having an elastic insert
US5918338A (en) * 1995-12-04 1999-07-06 Global Sports Technologies, Inc. Sports footwear with a sole unit comprising at least one composite material layer partly involving the sole unit itself
US5921004A (en) * 1995-06-07 1999-07-13 Nike, Inc. Footwear with stabilizers
US6038790A (en) * 1998-02-26 2000-03-21 Nine West Group, Inc. Flexible sole with cushioned ball and/or heel regions
US6055746A (en) 1993-03-29 2000-05-02 Nike, Inc. Athletic shoe with rearfoot strike zone
USD424289S (en) * 1999-02-08 2000-05-09 Brown Group, Inc. Footwear heel cushion element
US6065229A (en) * 1992-05-26 2000-05-23 Wahrheit; Gerhard Maximilian Multiple-part foot-support sole
WO2001001805A1 (en) 1999-07-02 2001-01-11 Bbc International, Ltd. Flex sole
US6408544B1 (en) 1999-07-02 2002-06-25 Bbc International Ltd. Flex sole
US6449878B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2002-09-17 Robert M. Lyden Article of footwear having a spring element and selectively removable components
US6487796B1 (en) 2001-01-02 2002-12-03 Nike, Inc. Footwear with lateral stabilizing sole
US6497057B1 (en) * 1999-11-01 2002-12-24 Ariat International, Inc. Heel cushion
US6508017B1 (en) * 1998-08-20 2003-01-21 Footwear Industries Pty Ltd Cushioning device for footwear
US6510626B1 (en) * 2000-07-28 2003-01-28 Kent S. Greenawalt Custom orthotic foot support assembly
US6564476B1 (en) 1999-07-02 2003-05-20 Bbc International, Ltd. Flex sole
US6574886B1 (en) * 1999-03-31 2003-06-10 H.H. Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Footwear and its method of construction
US20030135306A1 (en) * 2001-11-16 2003-07-17 Driscoll Joseph T. Rotor torque predictor
US6601042B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2003-07-29 Robert M. Lyden Customized article of footwear and method of conducting retail and internet business
US6613811B1 (en) 1999-06-03 2003-09-02 Trexel, Inc. Microcellular thermoplastic elastomeric structures
FR2842710A1 (en) * 2002-07-23 2004-01-30 Dynamic Osteopathic Postural S Footwear insole designed for postural stability has proximal support for metatarsus and tarsus with recess for calcaneum
US20040128860A1 (en) * 2003-01-08 2004-07-08 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure with adjustable characteristics
US20040154188A1 (en) * 2003-02-07 2004-08-12 Columbia Sportswear North America, Inc. Footwear with dual-density midsole and deceleration zones
US20040221483A1 (en) * 2001-11-02 2004-11-11 Mark Cartier Footwear midsole with compressible element in lateral heel area
US20040221484A1 (en) * 2003-05-07 2004-11-11 Hsu-Pang Wang Shoe sole with an integrated buffering unit and method for making the same
US6898870B1 (en) 2002-03-20 2005-05-31 Nike, Inc. Footwear sole having support elements with compressible apertures
US20050132611A1 (en) * 2003-12-22 2005-06-23 Polcek Norma E. High heel shoe cushion system
US6968636B2 (en) 2001-11-15 2005-11-29 Nike, Inc. Footwear sole with a stiffness adjustment mechanism
US20060005428A1 (en) * 2004-07-09 2006-01-12 Lebo Jonathan K Insole with cushion insert
US7000334B2 (en) 2001-02-16 2006-02-21 Srl, Inc. Shoe outsole
US20060107553A1 (en) * 2004-10-29 2006-05-25 The Timberland Company Shoe footbed system and method with interchangeable cartridges
US20060107552A1 (en) * 2004-10-29 2006-05-25 The Timberland Company Shoe footbed system with interchangeable cartridges
US20060185191A1 (en) * 2005-02-18 2006-08-24 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with plate dividing a support column
US20060248752A1 (en) * 2005-05-05 2006-11-09 Pony International,Llc Pressure dissipating heel counter and method of making same
US20060277799A1 (en) * 2005-06-06 2006-12-14 Columbia Insurance Company Multilayered sole
US20070039203A1 (en) * 2005-08-16 2007-02-22 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear and method of manufacturing same
US20070043630A1 (en) * 2000-03-10 2007-02-22 Lyden Robert M Custom article of footwear and method of making the same
US20070124960A1 (en) * 2005-12-05 2007-06-07 The Grandoe Corporation Multilayered footwear
WO2007121558A1 (en) * 2006-04-20 2007-11-01 Richard Engel Kicking shoe
US20070256327A1 (en) * 2002-11-27 2007-11-08 Salvatore Ferragamo Italia S.P.A. Method For The Production Of A Shock Absorbing Heel For Footwear And The Heel Produced Thereby
US20070266592A1 (en) * 2006-05-18 2007-11-22 Smith Steven F Article of Footwear with Support Assemblies having Elastomeric Support Columns
US20080016724A1 (en) * 2006-07-20 2008-01-24 Hlavac Harry F Dynamic sole
US7401418B2 (en) 2005-08-17 2008-07-22 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having midsole with support pillars and method of manufacturing same
WO2009094491A1 (en) * 2008-01-24 2009-07-30 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Cushioned shoe construction
US20090193688A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2009-08-06 Nike, Inc. Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements
US20090193682A1 (en) * 2008-01-31 2009-08-06 Auri Design Group, Inc. Shoe chassis
US20090205224A1 (en) * 2008-02-20 2009-08-20 Ori Rosenbaum Shoe suspension system
US20090272008A1 (en) * 2008-04-30 2009-11-05 Nike, Inc. Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Including Such Sole Structures
WO2010003414A1 (en) * 2008-07-05 2010-01-14 Ecco Sko A/S Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
WO2010007456A1 (en) * 2008-07-14 2010-01-21 Prince Sports, Inc. An improved sole structure
US20100031531A1 (en) * 2008-08-06 2010-02-11 Nike, Inc. Customization of Inner Sole Board
US20100180474A1 (en) * 2005-09-07 2010-07-22 The Timberland Company Extreme service footwear
US20110126422A1 (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-02 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Shoe sole with compressible protruding element
US20110179669A1 (en) * 2010-01-28 2011-07-28 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Cushioning and shock absorbing midsole
US20110214310A1 (en) * 2008-01-31 2011-09-08 Ori Rosenbaum Shoe chassis
US20110277355A1 (en) * 2010-05-13 2011-11-17 Windra Fahmi Article of footwear with multi-part sole assembly
US20120137540A1 (en) * 2010-08-02 2012-06-07 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Composite sole assembly
US20130000146A1 (en) * 2011-06-29 2013-01-03 Deeluxe Sportartikel Handels Gmbh Sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe
US20140007456A1 (en) * 2012-03-23 2014-01-09 Amfit, Inc. Dynamic support for an article of foot wear
US20140259789A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
WO2014144527A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having lightweight midsole members with protective elements
US20140298680A1 (en) * 2013-04-03 2014-10-09 Joan Oloff Footwear with Metatarsal Offloading
US20150223558A1 (en) * 2014-02-10 2015-08-13 Upright Footwear, Inc. Method and Device for Addressing Leg Length Inequality
US20150272269A1 (en) * 2012-11-05 2015-10-01 Feet2 Oy Midsole structure for a sports shoe and sports shoe
US20150289588A1 (en) * 2014-04-10 2015-10-15 Hyman Kramer Shoe heel device
US20160021972A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2016-01-28 Backjoy Orthotics, Llc Neutral posture orienting footbed system for footwear
US9301566B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-04-05 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US20160192737A1 (en) * 2013-02-21 2016-07-07 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with first and second outsole components and method of manufacturing an article of footwear
US20160286895A1 (en) * 2013-12-19 2016-10-06 Air & Grace Limited Footwear
US9462848B2 (en) 2013-10-09 2016-10-11 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure
US9480301B2 (en) 2013-10-09 2016-11-01 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure
WO2016176351A1 (en) * 2015-04-27 2016-11-03 United States Government As Represented By The Department Of Veterans Affairs Rocker shoes, rocker shoe development kit and method
US9504289B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-11-29 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US20180020772A1 (en) * 2016-07-20 2018-01-25 Vionic Group LLC Composite orthotic device
US20180242685A1 (en) * 2015-08-27 2018-08-30 Carmen Jackinsky Midsole, sole assembly and footwear for walking and running
US20190059509A1 (en) * 2016-10-28 2019-02-28 Maggie Thorne Shoe Insert Device
US10231513B1 (en) 2017-09-01 2019-03-19 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning, breathability, and flexibility
US10231512B2 (en) 2017-07-25 2019-03-19 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning and traction
US10238174B2 (en) 2017-07-25 2019-03-26 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning
US20190208858A1 (en) * 2018-01-07 2019-07-11 Cole Haan Llc Shoe having Cushion within Heel Member
US10426223B2 (en) 2017-07-25 2019-10-01 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning and flexibility
US10426224B2 (en) 2017-09-01 2019-10-01 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning, breathability, flexibility and water displacement
US11051580B2 (en) * 2016-10-14 2021-07-06 Asics Corporation Shoe having cushioning structure
US20220031012A1 (en) * 2018-11-12 2022-02-03 Ggrow Up Sports shoe including an optimized insole
US11419384B2 (en) 2019-02-07 2022-08-23 Benjamin Ari Bryer Shoe for simulating exercising on natural granular matertial
US20220312890A1 (en) * 2021-03-31 2022-10-06 Mizuno Corporation Sole structure and shoes having the same
US11478039B2 (en) * 2019-08-08 2022-10-25 Saucony, Inc. Footwear with a composite plate sole assembly
US11771173B1 (en) * 2020-09-28 2023-10-03 Tholi Incorporated Footwear with fluid distribution
US20240008594A1 (en) * 2021-05-17 2024-01-11 Solwerk Systems and methods for cushioned footwear

Citations (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US930990A (en) * 1908-01-06 1909-08-10 Karl C Rogers Boot or shoe heel.
US1592839A (en) * 1924-01-28 1926-07-20 Louis S Siegfried Heel
US1607896A (en) * 1923-04-27 1926-11-23 John A Kelly Flexible-sole shoe
DE537883C (en) * 1931-11-07 Hermann Eichler Sports boots
US2124819A (en) * 1937-08-23 1938-07-26 Henry G Halloran Shoe bottom filler
US2126601A (en) * 1936-09-18 1938-08-09 Bain William Henry Cushion sole
US2240835A (en) * 1940-02-21 1941-05-06 George W Cobb Footwear heel
US2362497A (en) * 1943-10-29 1944-11-14 William D Moore Metal arch support
US2407498A (en) * 1944-11-08 1946-09-10 Harry H Johnson Shoe
US3161970A (en) * 1961-07-17 1964-12-22 Raymond F Purtell Shoe insoles
FR2272618A1 (en) * 1974-05-31 1975-12-26 Meier Ernst
GB1437329A (en) * 1972-10-07 1976-05-26 Britton Sons Ltd G B Shoes and methods of manufacturing shoes
US4033054A (en) * 1975-08-11 1977-07-05 Tatsuo Fukuoka Footwear
US4124946A (en) * 1976-04-02 1978-11-14 Scholl, Inc. Built-in insole and article of footwear containing same
US4133118A (en) * 1977-05-06 1979-01-09 Khalsa Gurujot S Footwear construction
US4241523A (en) * 1978-09-25 1980-12-30 Daswick Alexander C Shoe sole structure
US4316335A (en) * 1979-04-05 1982-02-23 Comfort Products, Inc. Athletic shoe construction
FR2499377A1 (en) * 1981-02-09 1982-08-13 Mozayan Gaspard Supple sole for boot - has symmetrical double concave arch under instep formed by extension of front sole
US4364189A (en) * 1980-12-05 1982-12-21 Bates Barry T Running shoe with differential cushioning
US4364188A (en) * 1980-10-06 1982-12-21 Wolverine World Wide, Inc. Running shoe with rear stabilization means
US4537060A (en) * 1982-12-23 1985-08-27 Monsanto Europe, S.A. Apparatus and method for multiaxial impact testing of materials
US4580359A (en) * 1983-10-24 1986-04-08 Pro-Shu Company Golf shoes
US4608768A (en) * 1983-10-24 1986-09-02 Puma-Sportschuhfabriken Rudolf Dassler Kg Athletic shoe having a shock-absorbing running sole and a process for manufacturing said athletic shoe

Patent Citations (23)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE537883C (en) * 1931-11-07 Hermann Eichler Sports boots
US930990A (en) * 1908-01-06 1909-08-10 Karl C Rogers Boot or shoe heel.
US1607896A (en) * 1923-04-27 1926-11-23 John A Kelly Flexible-sole shoe
US1592839A (en) * 1924-01-28 1926-07-20 Louis S Siegfried Heel
US2126601A (en) * 1936-09-18 1938-08-09 Bain William Henry Cushion sole
US2124819A (en) * 1937-08-23 1938-07-26 Henry G Halloran Shoe bottom filler
US2240835A (en) * 1940-02-21 1941-05-06 George W Cobb Footwear heel
US2362497A (en) * 1943-10-29 1944-11-14 William D Moore Metal arch support
US2407498A (en) * 1944-11-08 1946-09-10 Harry H Johnson Shoe
US3161970A (en) * 1961-07-17 1964-12-22 Raymond F Purtell Shoe insoles
GB1437329A (en) * 1972-10-07 1976-05-26 Britton Sons Ltd G B Shoes and methods of manufacturing shoes
FR2272618A1 (en) * 1974-05-31 1975-12-26 Meier Ernst
US4033054A (en) * 1975-08-11 1977-07-05 Tatsuo Fukuoka Footwear
US4124946A (en) * 1976-04-02 1978-11-14 Scholl, Inc. Built-in insole and article of footwear containing same
US4133118A (en) * 1977-05-06 1979-01-09 Khalsa Gurujot S Footwear construction
US4241523A (en) * 1978-09-25 1980-12-30 Daswick Alexander C Shoe sole structure
US4316335A (en) * 1979-04-05 1982-02-23 Comfort Products, Inc. Athletic shoe construction
US4364188A (en) * 1980-10-06 1982-12-21 Wolverine World Wide, Inc. Running shoe with rear stabilization means
US4364189A (en) * 1980-12-05 1982-12-21 Bates Barry T Running shoe with differential cushioning
FR2499377A1 (en) * 1981-02-09 1982-08-13 Mozayan Gaspard Supple sole for boot - has symmetrical double concave arch under instep formed by extension of front sole
US4537060A (en) * 1982-12-23 1985-08-27 Monsanto Europe, S.A. Apparatus and method for multiaxial impact testing of materials
US4580359A (en) * 1983-10-24 1986-04-08 Pro-Shu Company Golf shoes
US4608768A (en) * 1983-10-24 1986-09-02 Puma-Sportschuhfabriken Rudolf Dassler Kg Athletic shoe having a shock-absorbing running sole and a process for manufacturing said athletic shoe

Cited By (187)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5005300A (en) * 1987-07-06 1991-04-09 Reebok International Ltd. Tubular cushioning system for shoes
US4928404A (en) * 1988-01-08 1990-05-29 Bauerfeind Gmbh & Co. Heel cushion
WO1990006699A1 (en) * 1988-12-14 1990-06-28 Avia Group International, Inc. Insert member for use in an athletic shoe
US5255451A (en) * 1988-12-14 1993-10-26 Avia Group International, Inc. Insert member for use in an athletic shoe
US4918841A (en) * 1989-01-30 1990-04-24 Turner Jerome P Athletic shoe with improved midsole
US4947560A (en) * 1989-02-09 1990-08-14 Kaepa, Inc. Split vamp shoe with lateral stabilizer system
US5465509A (en) * 1989-02-09 1995-11-14 Kaepa, Inc. Athletic shoe with lateral stabilizer system
US4984320A (en) * 1989-04-17 1991-01-15 Foot-Joy, Inc. Shoe sole embossed composition and method
AU632568B2 (en) * 1989-04-17 1993-01-07 Foot-Joy, Inc. Shoe sole embossed composition and method
WO1990012517A1 (en) * 1989-04-17 1990-11-01 Foot-Joy, Inc. Shoe sole embossed composition and method
US5077915A (en) * 1989-04-28 1992-01-07 Converse, Inc. Stress fracture reduction midsole
US5092060A (en) * 1989-05-24 1992-03-03 Enrico Frachey Sports shoe incorporating an elastic insert in the heel
US5369896A (en) * 1989-05-24 1994-12-06 Fila Sport S.P.A. Sports shoe incorporating an elastic insert in the heel
US5187883A (en) * 1990-08-10 1993-02-23 Richard Penney Internal footwear construction with a replaceable heel cushion element
US5467536A (en) * 1991-05-24 1995-11-21 Ramer; John Shoe construction
US5343639A (en) * 1991-08-02 1994-09-06 Nike, Inc. Shoe with an improved midsole
US5353523A (en) * 1991-08-02 1994-10-11 Nike, Inc. Shoe with an improved midsole
US6065229A (en) * 1992-05-26 2000-05-23 Wahrheit; Gerhard Maximilian Multiple-part foot-support sole
AU663414B2 (en) * 1992-10-07 1995-10-05 Friedhelm Vogler Shoe
US5416989A (en) * 1993-03-29 1995-05-23 Brown Group, Inc. Shoe with a shank having a cushion therein
US6055746A (en) 1993-03-29 2000-05-02 Nike, Inc. Athletic shoe with rearfoot strike zone
US5433022A (en) * 1993-04-16 1995-07-18 Lo; Chie-Fang Three color side wall rubber sole in simply changeable mode
US5384977A (en) * 1993-06-25 1995-01-31 Global Sports Technologies Inc. Sports footwear
US5491909A (en) * 1993-08-18 1996-02-20 Darco Shock absorbing medical shoe
US5542196A (en) * 1994-04-15 1996-08-06 Donna Karan Shoe Company Insole
US5921004A (en) * 1995-06-07 1999-07-13 Nike, Inc. Footwear with stabilizers
US6041521A (en) * 1995-10-16 2000-03-28 Fila Sport, Spa. Sports shoe having an elastic insert
US5918383A (en) * 1995-10-16 1999-07-06 Fila U.S.A., Inc. Sports shoe having an elastic insert
US5875569A (en) * 1995-11-13 1999-03-02 Dupree; Tony L. Athletic shoe with anti-inversion protection
US5832634A (en) * 1995-12-04 1998-11-10 Fila Sport S.P.A. Sports footwear with a sole unit comprising at least one composite material layer partly involving the sole unit itself
US5918338A (en) * 1995-12-04 1999-07-06 Global Sports Technologies, Inc. Sports footwear with a sole unit comprising at least one composite material layer partly involving the sole unit itself
US5911491A (en) * 1996-02-08 1999-06-15 Footstar, Inc. Welt shoe comfort system
US5768801A (en) * 1996-02-08 1998-06-23 Meldisco H.C., Inc. Welt shoe comfort system
US5881478A (en) * 1998-01-12 1999-03-16 Converse Inc. Midsole construction having a rockable member
US6038790A (en) * 1998-02-26 2000-03-21 Nine West Group, Inc. Flexible sole with cushioned ball and/or heel regions
US6508017B1 (en) * 1998-08-20 2003-01-21 Footwear Industries Pty Ltd Cushioning device for footwear
USD424289S (en) * 1999-02-08 2000-05-09 Brown Group, Inc. Footwear heel cushion element
US6574886B1 (en) * 1999-03-31 2003-06-10 H.H. Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Footwear and its method of construction
US6613811B1 (en) 1999-06-03 2003-09-02 Trexel, Inc. Microcellular thermoplastic elastomeric structures
WO2001001805A1 (en) 1999-07-02 2001-01-11 Bbc International, Ltd. Flex sole
US6367172B2 (en) 1999-07-02 2002-04-09 Bbc International Ltd. Flex sole
US6408544B1 (en) 1999-07-02 2002-06-25 Bbc International Ltd. Flex sole
US6564476B1 (en) 1999-07-02 2003-05-20 Bbc International, Ltd. Flex sole
US6497057B1 (en) * 1999-11-01 2002-12-24 Ariat International, Inc. Heel cushion
US6601042B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2003-07-29 Robert M. Lyden Customized article of footwear and method of conducting retail and internet business
US20070043630A1 (en) * 2000-03-10 2007-02-22 Lyden Robert M Custom article of footwear and method of making the same
US7770306B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2010-08-10 Lyden Robert M Custom article of footwear
US6449878B1 (en) 2000-03-10 2002-09-17 Robert M. Lyden Article of footwear having a spring element and selectively removable components
US8209883B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2012-07-03 Robert Michael Lyden Custom article of footwear and method of making the same
US20080060220A1 (en) * 2000-03-10 2008-03-13 Lyden Robert M Custom article of footwear, method of making the same, and method of conducting retail and internet business
US7752775B2 (en) 2000-03-10 2010-07-13 Lyden Robert M Footwear with removable lasting board and cleats
US6510626B1 (en) * 2000-07-28 2003-01-28 Kent S. Greenawalt Custom orthotic foot support assembly
US6487796B1 (en) 2001-01-02 2002-12-03 Nike, Inc. Footwear with lateral stabilizing sole
US7000334B2 (en) 2001-02-16 2006-02-21 Srl, Inc. Shoe outsole
US20040221483A1 (en) * 2001-11-02 2004-11-11 Mark Cartier Footwear midsole with compressible element in lateral heel area
US6964120B2 (en) 2001-11-02 2005-11-15 Nike, Inc. Footwear midsole with compressible element in lateral heel area
US6968636B2 (en) 2001-11-15 2005-11-29 Nike, Inc. Footwear sole with a stiffness adjustment mechanism
US20030135306A1 (en) * 2001-11-16 2003-07-17 Driscoll Joseph T. Rotor torque predictor
US6898870B1 (en) 2002-03-20 2005-05-31 Nike, Inc. Footwear sole having support elements with compressible apertures
FR2842710A1 (en) * 2002-07-23 2004-01-30 Dynamic Osteopathic Postural S Footwear insole designed for postural stability has proximal support for metatarsus and tarsus with recess for calcaneum
US20070256327A1 (en) * 2002-11-27 2007-11-08 Salvatore Ferragamo Italia S.P.A. Method For The Production Of A Shock Absorbing Heel For Footwear And The Heel Produced Thereby
US20040128860A1 (en) * 2003-01-08 2004-07-08 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure with adjustable characteristics
US6880267B2 (en) 2003-01-08 2005-04-19 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure with adjustable characteristics
US20040181969A1 (en) * 2003-01-08 2004-09-23 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure with adjustable characteristics
US7082698B2 (en) 2003-01-08 2006-08-01 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure with adjustable characteristics
US20040154188A1 (en) * 2003-02-07 2004-08-12 Columbia Sportswear North America, Inc. Footwear with dual-density midsole and deceleration zones
US20040221484A1 (en) * 2003-05-07 2004-11-11 Hsu-Pang Wang Shoe sole with an integrated buffering unit and method for making the same
US20050132611A1 (en) * 2003-12-22 2005-06-23 Polcek Norma E. High heel shoe cushion system
US7047669B2 (en) * 2003-12-22 2006-05-23 Norma Ellen Polcek High heel shoe cushion system
WO2005063072A1 (en) * 2003-12-22 2005-07-14 Norma Ellen Polcek High heel shoe cushion system
US20060005428A1 (en) * 2004-07-09 2006-01-12 Lebo Jonathan K Insole with cushion insert
US7237346B2 (en) * 2004-07-09 2007-07-03 Columbia Insurance Company Insole with cushion insert
US7681333B2 (en) 2004-10-29 2010-03-23 The Timberland Company Shoe footbed system with interchangeable cartridges
US20060107552A1 (en) * 2004-10-29 2006-05-25 The Timberland Company Shoe footbed system with interchangeable cartridges
US20060107553A1 (en) * 2004-10-29 2006-05-25 The Timberland Company Shoe footbed system and method with interchangeable cartridges
US7461470B2 (en) 2004-10-29 2008-12-09 The Timberland Company Shoe footbed system and method with interchangeable cartridges
US20060185191A1 (en) * 2005-02-18 2006-08-24 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with plate dividing a support column
US7493708B2 (en) 2005-02-18 2009-02-24 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with plate dividing a support column
US20060248752A1 (en) * 2005-05-05 2006-11-09 Pony International,Llc Pressure dissipating heel counter and method of making same
US7464490B2 (en) * 2005-06-06 2008-12-16 Columbia Insurance Company Multilayered sole
US20060277799A1 (en) * 2005-06-06 2006-12-14 Columbia Insurance Company Multilayered sole
US7614169B2 (en) * 2005-08-16 2009-11-10 Nike, Inc. Method of manufacturing an article of footwear
US7497033B2 (en) * 2005-08-16 2009-03-03 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear and method of manufacturing same
US20080313824A1 (en) * 2005-08-16 2008-12-25 Nike, Inc. Method of manufacturing an article of footwear
US20070039203A1 (en) * 2005-08-16 2007-02-22 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear and method of manufacturing same
US20100077636A1 (en) * 2005-08-17 2010-04-01 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having midsole with support pillars and method of manufacturing same
US20110067263A1 (en) * 2005-08-17 2011-03-24 Nike, Inc. Article of Footwear Having Midsole with Support Pillars and Method of Manufacturing Same
US7401418B2 (en) 2005-08-17 2008-07-22 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having midsole with support pillars and method of manufacturing same
US7841105B2 (en) 2005-08-17 2010-11-30 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having midsole with support pillars and method of manufacturing same
US7762008B1 (en) 2005-09-07 2010-07-27 The Timberland Company Extreme service footwear
US20100180474A1 (en) * 2005-09-07 2010-07-22 The Timberland Company Extreme service footwear
US20100263229A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2010-10-21 Nike, Inc. Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements
US20090193688A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2009-08-06 Nike, Inc. Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements
US8302234B2 (en) 2005-10-03 2012-11-06 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a sole structure having fluid-filled support elements
US8302328B2 (en) 2005-10-03 2012-11-06 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a sole structure having fluid-filled support elements
US8656608B2 (en) 2005-10-03 2014-02-25 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a sole structure having fluid-filled support elements
US8312643B2 (en) 2005-10-03 2012-11-20 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a sole structure having fluid-filled support elements
US20110010962A1 (en) * 2005-10-03 2011-01-20 Nike, Inc. Article Of Footwear With A Sole Structure Having Fluid-Filled Support Elements
US7810256B2 (en) 2005-10-03 2010-10-12 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a sole structure having fluid-filled support elements
US7774955B2 (en) 2005-10-03 2010-08-17 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with a sole structure having fluid-filled support elements
US7685741B2 (en) * 2005-12-05 2010-03-30 The Grandoe Corporation Multilayered footwear
US20070124960A1 (en) * 2005-12-05 2007-06-07 The Grandoe Corporation Multilayered footwear
EP2012612A1 (en) * 2006-04-20 2009-01-14 Richard Engel Kicking shoe
WO2007121558A1 (en) * 2006-04-20 2007-11-01 Richard Engel Kicking shoe
EP2012612A4 (en) * 2006-04-20 2014-01-01 Richard Engel Kicking shoe
US7748141B2 (en) 2006-05-18 2010-07-06 Nike, Inc Article of footwear with support assemblies having elastomeric support columns
US20070266592A1 (en) * 2006-05-18 2007-11-22 Smith Steven F Article of Footwear with Support Assemblies having Elastomeric Support Columns
US20080016724A1 (en) * 2006-07-20 2008-01-24 Hlavac Harry F Dynamic sole
US20090188131A1 (en) * 2008-01-24 2009-07-30 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Cushioned shoe construction
WO2009094491A1 (en) * 2008-01-24 2009-07-30 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Cushioned shoe construction
CN101980675B (en) * 2008-01-24 2014-02-26 布朗鞋业公司 Cushioned shoe construction
US8713818B2 (en) * 2008-01-24 2014-05-06 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Cushioned shoe construction
US20090193682A1 (en) * 2008-01-31 2009-08-06 Auri Design Group, Inc. Shoe chassis
US7946060B2 (en) * 2008-01-31 2011-05-24 Auri Design Group, Llc Shoe chassis
US20110214310A1 (en) * 2008-01-31 2011-09-08 Ori Rosenbaum Shoe chassis
US20090205224A1 (en) * 2008-02-20 2009-08-20 Ori Rosenbaum Shoe suspension system
US7997010B2 (en) 2008-02-20 2011-08-16 Auri Footwear, Inc. Shoe suspension system
US20090272008A1 (en) * 2008-04-30 2009-11-05 Nike, Inc. Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Including Such Sole Structures
US8220186B2 (en) * 2008-04-30 2012-07-17 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear including such sole structures
CN102014681B (en) * 2008-04-30 2014-05-21 耐克国际有限公司 Sole structures and articles of footwear including such sole structures
WO2010003414A1 (en) * 2008-07-05 2010-01-14 Ecco Sko A/S Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
EP2299862A1 (en) * 2008-07-05 2011-03-30 Ecco Sko A/S Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
EP2299862A4 (en) * 2008-07-05 2013-05-29 Ecco Sko As Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
US20110030245A1 (en) * 2008-07-05 2011-02-10 Ecco Sko A/S Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
CN102046035B (en) * 2008-07-05 2012-08-08 伊科斯克有限公司 Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
US10165821B2 (en) * 2008-07-05 2019-01-01 Ecco Sko A/S Sole for a shoe, in particular for a running shoe
WO2010007456A1 (en) * 2008-07-14 2010-01-21 Prince Sports, Inc. An improved sole structure
US9003679B2 (en) * 2008-08-06 2015-04-14 Nike, Inc. Customization of inner sole board
US9844242B2 (en) 2008-08-06 2017-12-19 Nike, Inc. Customization of inner sole board
US9808046B2 (en) 2008-08-06 2017-11-07 Nike, Inc. Customization of inner sole board
US20100031531A1 (en) * 2008-08-06 2010-02-11 Nike, Inc. Customization of Inner Sole Board
US20110126422A1 (en) * 2009-12-02 2011-06-02 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Shoe sole with compressible protruding element
US20110179669A1 (en) * 2010-01-28 2011-07-28 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Cushioning and shock absorbing midsole
US9167867B2 (en) * 2010-05-13 2015-10-27 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with multi-part sole assembly
US20110277355A1 (en) * 2010-05-13 2011-11-17 Windra Fahmi Article of footwear with multi-part sole assembly
EP2568839B1 (en) * 2010-05-13 2017-06-21 NIKE Innovate C.V. Article of footwear with multi-part sole assembly
CN102917612A (en) * 2010-05-13 2013-02-06 耐克国际有限公司 Article of footwear with multi-part sole assembly
US20120137540A1 (en) * 2010-08-02 2012-06-07 Brown Shoe Company, Inc. Composite sole assembly
EP2540181A3 (en) * 2011-06-29 2014-01-15 Deeluxe Sportartikel Handels GmbH Sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe
US20130000146A1 (en) * 2011-06-29 2013-01-03 Deeluxe Sportartikel Handels Gmbh Sole for a shoe, in particular a running shoe
US20140007456A1 (en) * 2012-03-23 2014-01-09 Amfit, Inc. Dynamic support for an article of foot wear
US20150272269A1 (en) * 2012-11-05 2015-10-01 Feet2 Oy Midsole structure for a sports shoe and sports shoe
US9981437B2 (en) * 2013-02-21 2018-05-29 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with first and second outsole components and method of manufacturing an article of footwear
US20160192737A1 (en) * 2013-02-21 2016-07-07 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear with first and second outsole components and method of manufacturing an article of footwear
US9510635B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2016-12-06 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US20160021972A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2016-01-28 Backjoy Orthotics, Llc Neutral posture orienting footbed system for footwear
WO2014144527A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having lightweight midsole members with protective elements
US10188174B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2019-01-29 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US9468255B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-10-18 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
AU2014229005B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2016-10-20 Nike Innovate C.V. Sole structures and articles of footwear having lightweight midsole members with protective elements
CN105101829B (en) * 2013-03-15 2017-11-10 耐克创新有限合伙公司 Include the article of footwear of the footwear sole construction comprising great waves structure
US10932520B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2021-03-02 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US9504289B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-11-29 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US20140259789A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-18 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US20170055637A1 (en) * 2013-03-15 2017-03-02 Nike, Inc. Sole Structures and Articles of Footwear Having a Lightweight Midsole Member with Protective Elements
US9301566B2 (en) 2013-03-15 2016-04-05 Nike, Inc. Sole structures and articles of footwear having a lightweight midsole member with protective elements
US9770066B2 (en) * 2013-03-15 2017-09-26 Willem J. L. Van Bakel Neutral posture orienting footbed system for footwear
US10264847B2 (en) * 2013-04-03 2019-04-23 Joan Oloff Footwear with metatarsal offloading
US20140298680A1 (en) * 2013-04-03 2014-10-09 Joan Oloff Footwear with Metatarsal Offloading
US9480301B2 (en) 2013-10-09 2016-11-01 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure
US9462848B2 (en) 2013-10-09 2016-10-11 Nike, Inc. Article of footwear having a sole structure
US20160286895A1 (en) * 2013-12-19 2016-10-06 Air & Grace Limited Footwear
US20150223558A1 (en) * 2014-02-10 2015-08-13 Upright Footwear, Inc. Method and Device for Addressing Leg Length Inequality
US20150289588A1 (en) * 2014-04-10 2015-10-15 Hyman Kramer Shoe heel device
US9737112B2 (en) * 2014-04-10 2017-08-22 Hyman Kramer Shoe heel device
US10779612B2 (en) 2015-04-27 2020-09-22 United States Government As Represented By The Department Of Veterans Affairs Rocker shoes, rocker shoe development kit and method
WO2016176351A1 (en) * 2015-04-27 2016-11-03 United States Government As Represented By The Department Of Veterans Affairs Rocker shoes, rocker shoe development kit and method
US10292452B2 (en) 2015-04-27 2019-05-21 The United States Of America As Represented By The Department Of Veterans Affairs Rocker shoes, rocker shoe development kit and method
US20180242685A1 (en) * 2015-08-27 2018-08-30 Carmen Jackinsky Midsole, sole assembly and footwear for walking and running
US10779611B2 (en) * 2015-08-27 2020-09-22 Reshod Walking Shoes, Llc Midsole, sole assembly and footwear for walking and running
US20180020772A1 (en) * 2016-07-20 2018-01-25 Vionic Group LLC Composite orthotic device
US11051580B2 (en) * 2016-10-14 2021-07-06 Asics Corporation Shoe having cushioning structure
US20190059509A1 (en) * 2016-10-28 2019-02-28 Maggie Thorne Shoe Insert Device
US10798991B2 (en) * 2016-10-28 2020-10-13 Maggie Thorne Shoe insert device
US10238174B2 (en) 2017-07-25 2019-03-26 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning
US10426223B2 (en) 2017-07-25 2019-10-01 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning and flexibility
US10231512B2 (en) 2017-07-25 2019-03-19 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning and traction
US10426224B2 (en) 2017-09-01 2019-10-01 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning, breathability, flexibility and water displacement
US10231513B1 (en) 2017-09-01 2019-03-19 Footwear Unlimited Inc. Three layer shoe construction with improved cushioning, breathability, and flexibility
US20190208858A1 (en) * 2018-01-07 2019-07-11 Cole Haan Llc Shoe having Cushion within Heel Member
US11116283B2 (en) * 2018-01-07 2021-09-14 Cole Haan Llc Shoe having cushion within heel member
US20220031012A1 (en) * 2018-11-12 2022-02-03 Ggrow Up Sports shoe including an optimized insole
US11419384B2 (en) 2019-02-07 2022-08-23 Benjamin Ari Bryer Shoe for simulating exercising on natural granular matertial
US11478039B2 (en) * 2019-08-08 2022-10-25 Saucony, Inc. Footwear with a composite plate sole assembly
US11771173B1 (en) * 2020-09-28 2023-10-03 Tholi Incorporated Footwear with fluid distribution
US20220312890A1 (en) * 2021-03-31 2022-10-06 Mizuno Corporation Sole structure and shoes having the same
US20240008594A1 (en) * 2021-05-17 2024-01-11 Solwerk Systems and methods for cushioned footwear

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US4794707A (en) Shoe with internal dynamic rocker element
US4783910A (en) Casual shoe
US11839259B2 (en) Articles of footwear and sole structures with pressure-mapped midsole topographies and inlaid outsoles
US4759136A (en) Athletic shoe with dynamic cradle
US4731939A (en) Athletic shoe with external counter and cushion assembly
US9259050B2 (en) Footwear with orthotic midsole
US7225564B1 (en) Shoe outsole
US4638576A (en) Athletic shoe with external counter and cushion assembly
CN110013073B (en) Article of footwear having a lateral-heeled midsole with an embedded spring plate
US5915820A (en) Shoe having an internal chassis
US4833795A (en) Outsole construction for athletic shoe
US4316335A (en) Athletic shoe construction
US8671589B2 (en) Shoe sole having forwardly and rearwardly facing protrusions
US6925732B1 (en) Footwear with separated upper and sole structure
CA1251636A (en) Toe off athletic shoe
US8196316B2 (en) Article of footwear with two part midsole assembly
US20040154188A1 (en) Footwear with dual-density midsole and deceleration zones
US20010032400A1 (en) Footwear outsole having arcuate inner-structure
US11553758B2 (en) Sole structures having multiple hardnesses and/or flex promoting structures
CN113545561B (en) Shoes with air-permeable layer
US5893221A (en) Footwear having a protuberance
US20220312890A1 (en) Sole structure and shoes having the same
CN208259166U (en) A kind of footwear sole construction with double high-elastic balance of power cushions
KR101063735B1 (en) Health walking sandals
CN212650503U (en) Antitorque children's shoes sole

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
AS Assignment

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:FRANKLIN, CRAIG A.;PARRACHO, RUI M.;BOYS, JACK A. II;AND OTHERS;SIGNING DATES FROM 19870831 TO 19870901;REEL/FRAME:004853/0131

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., ONE FORDHAM ROAD, NORTH READING, MA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:SMITH, LLOYD S.;REEL/FRAME:004853/0101

Effective date: 19870820

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., ONE FORDHAM ROAD, NORTH READING, MA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNOR:GROSS, ALEXANDER L.;REEL/FRAME:004853/0106

Effective date: 19870901

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., ONE FORDHAM ROAD, NORTH READING, MA

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST.;ASSIGNORS:FRANKLIN, CRAIG A.;PARRACHO, RUI M.;BOYS, JACK A. II;AND OTHERS;REEL/FRAME:004853/0131;SIGNING DATES FROM 19870831 TO 19870901

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:SMITH, LLOYD S.;REEL/FRAME:004853/0101

Effective date: 19870820

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:GROSS, ALEXANDER L.;REEL/FRAME:004853/0106

Effective date: 19870901

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 4

AS Assignment

Owner name: READY, JOSEPH F., STATELESS

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:INTERCO INCORPORATED, A CORP. OF DE, AND SUCH SUBSIDIARIES LISTED AS: BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC.; CONVERSE INC.; AND LANE COMPANY, INCORPORATED, THE;REEL/FRAME:006268/0760

Effective date: 19920716

AS Assignment

Owner name: BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION A CORP. OF DELAWARE, ST

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CONVERSE INC. A CORP. OF DELAWARE;REEL/FRAME:006268/0734

Effective date: 19920716

AS Assignment

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT.;ASSIGNOR:BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION;REEL/FRAME:007205/0001

Effective date: 19941117

AS Assignment

Owner name: BT COMMERCIAL CORPORATION, ILLINOIS

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CONVERSE INC.;REEL/FRAME:007205/0026

Effective date: 19941117

AS Assignment

Owner name: CONVERSE INC. A CORP. OF DE., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT.;ASSIGNORS:FIRST FIDELITY BANK;READY, JOSEPH F.;REEL/FRAME:007203/0028

Effective date: 19941108

Owner name: LANE COMPANY, INCORPORATED, THE A CORP. OF VA., V

Free format text: RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT.;ASSIGNORS:FIRST FIDELITY BANK;READY, JOSEPH F.;REEL/FRAME:007203/0028

Effective date: 19941108

Owner name: INTERCO INCORPORATED, MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT.;ASSIGNORS:FIRST FIDELITY BANK;READY, JOSEPH F.;REEL/FRAME:007203/0028

Effective date: 19941108

Owner name: BROYHILL FURNITURE INDUSTRIES, INC. A CORP. OF

Free format text: RELEASE OF PATENTS SECURITY AGMT.;ASSIGNORS:FIRST FIDELITY BANK;READY, JOSEPH F.;REEL/FRAME:007203/0028

Effective date: 19941108

FPAY Fee payment

Year of fee payment: 8

REMI Maintenance fee reminder mailed
LAPS Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees
FP Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee

Effective date: 20010103

AS Assignment

Owner name: FOOTWEAR ACQUISITION, INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:CONVERSE, INC.;REEL/FRAME:011575/0159

Effective date: 20010430

Owner name: CONGRESS FINANCIAL CORPORATION, NEW YORK

Free format text: SECURITY INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:FOOTWEAR ACQUISITION, INC.;REEL/FRAME:011575/0187

Effective date: 20010430

AS Assignment

Owner name: CONVERSE INC., MASSACHUSETTS

Free format text: CHANGE OF NAME;ASSIGNOR:FOOTWEAR ACQUISITIONS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:012428/0128

Effective date: 20010521

STCH Information on status: patent discontinuation

Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362